David Ortiz thinks David Price should apologize to Dennis Eckersley

David Ortiz is no longer a member of the Boston Red Sox, but his words may still carry weight with the team. Ortiz sent a message to pitcher David Price on Sunday, suggesting he should apologize to broadcaster Dennis Eckersley.

“I don’t think it’s fair to get stuck on something that was mishandled and can be fixed. If he has to come and apologize to Eckersley because of the way that things went down or whatever, let’s do it and let’s just move on.”

Ortiz was at Fenway Park as part of a celebration of the 2007 Red Sox. He was asked about the situation while speaking with reporters. Ortiz didn’t just randomly offer up his take and inject himself into the situation.

Still, it could be perceived that way by members of the team. While Ortiz carries a lot of weight with the Red Sox, he’s no longer a constant presence in the clubhouse. He doesn’t know how everyone involved feels about the feud.

David Ortiz has a message for David Price. (AP Photo)

He does, however, know both Price and Eckersley. If Ortiz believes the two need to bury the hatchet, it’s probably coming from a good place.

Since the rift began, the Red Sox have gone 12-13 in July. It’s the first month in which the team has posted a losing record this season. While it would be foolish to attribute that to an argument between Price and Eckersley, having to answer questions about it constantly could frustrate the players even further.

Making amends won’t guarantee the Red Sox will turn things around, but it’s one fewer distraction the team needs to worry about as they push for the postseason in the second half.